ROLF Harris CBE entertained thousands of graduates and their families at the University of East London (UEL) yesterday.

The popular Australian singer, painter and television personality received an honorary doctorate at a ceremony for UEL school of education graduates at the Barbican Hall.

During his acceptance speech, Mr Harris talked about his own student years and led the audience of graduates and their families in a rendition of his hit, Two Little Boys.

He said to the graduates: "Make sure you look at every person in the audience or in the classroom. Unless you have the courage and confidence to meet everyone's eyes you will never reach your potential.

"You have to let them know that you are aware of what they are doing."

Mr Harris visited the university in 2003 to create digital designs for some of his work and also attended the opening of the new UEL business school in February this year, Mr Harris said "It's really thrilling to be associated with this university. It's been brilliant to come back to a place of learning and help to inspire the students and give them some advice along the way."

The UEL chancellor Lord Brian Rix also presented awards to more than 300 graduates, including many qualified teachers.